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Gloversville, N.Y. native excels as Marine, looks toward future

SgtMaj Christopher Robinson, left, Cpl Ashley Rowback, center, and MajGen Robert F. Hedelund, right, display Rowback's Certificate of Commendation after a presentation ceremony at Marine Air Support Squadron 1's headquarters March 13, 2014. Robinson is the sergeant major for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, Rowback is an air support operations operator with MASS-1 and Hedelund is the commanding general for 2nd MAW. Photo by LCpl Joshua Heins.

Rowback joined the Marine Corps as an air support operations operator in 2011 and strives to stay ahead of her peers, as evidenced by recent recognition from the commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, MajGen Robert F. Hedelund.

Hedelund awarded Rowback a certificate of commendation for her recent and ongoing accomplishments. Rowback tries to set the example for her Marines on and off duty, she said.

"You can never stop," said Rowback. "If you have 10 Marine Corps Institute courses completed, push and finish two more. Always strive to be better."

Rowback believes her mission at Marine Air Support Squadron 1 is important.

"We support the troops on the ground," she said. "Without us, they wouldn't have close-air support or supplies, so it's important that we do not fail."

The most challenging aspect of her job is staying grounded and maintaining composure when situations get hectic, according to Rowback. Constantly learning and maintaining proficiency helps Rowback grow as an air support operator and as a noncommissioned officer.

"You need to stay up to date in this job," said the Gloversville N.Y., native.

Rowback looks forward to her future in the Corps and hopes to advance her career as a Marine Security Guard.

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Marines I see as two breeds, Rottweilers or Dobermans, because Marines come in two varieties, big and mean, or skinny and mean. They're aggressive on the attack and tenacious on the defense. They've got really short hair and always go for the throat.